The Solomons nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in the Solomon Islands archipelago. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forests. It avoids human activity, and is nocturnal.
Region
Solomon Islands archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and coastal habitats across parts of the Solomon Islands, especially in dry or open forest, forest edge, and scrub. It forages over clearings, tracks, and along shorelines, returning to roost on leaf litter or bare ground by day. The species avoids densely settled areas and generally shuns bright artificial lighting. Nesting typically takes place on sparsely vegetated ground with good camouflage.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Solomons nightjar is a cryptic, nocturnal eared-nightjar of the Solomon Islands, spending daylight hours motionless on the ground or low branches where its mottled plumage provides superb camouflage. It hunts aerial insects over forest edges, clearings, and coastal areas at dusk and night. Like many nightjars, it lays a single egg directly on the ground without building a nest. It is sensitive to disturbance and tends to avoid areas with heavy human activity.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
buoyant moth-like flight with short bursts and glides
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside the breeding period; forms pairs during breeding. Nests consist of a single egg placed directly on the ground, relying on camouflage. Adults perform distraction displays if approached near the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive churring or trilling series delivered at night from a perch or during short display flights. Also gives low whistles and harsh contact notes while foraging.
